Colorado Days set for this weekend in Hayden

Hayden  Saturday morning, large men in tiny cars will honk and wave as they circle endlessly on Jefferson Avenue in Hayden. The comedic display is recognized nationwide as the Shriners and heralds the beginning of Colorado Days.

For 19 years, the parade has included about a dozen Shrine Club chapters and members of the community. The only difference this year will be the absence of the Hayden Fire Department. It is needed elsewhere.

The parade will proceed on Jefferson Avenue to Hayden High School. The entire procession will take a left on Third Street and head straight for Town Park and about 800 pounds of meat.

The barbecue following the parade costs $10 for adults and $3 for children. Every dollar will go to the Shriners Hospitals for Children.

The Shriners Hospitals is a network of pediatric specialty hospitals, founded by the Shrine, where children younger than the age of 18 receive orthopedic care and treatment for severe burns free of charge.

The hospitals can afford to treat all their patients without ever sending out a bill because of fund-raisers like this weekend's barbecue.

"Several children from Hayden have been helped by the Shriners Hospitals," said Bob Robinson, a member of the Northwest Colorado Shrine Club. "The problem with the barbecue is that a lot of people think it is just for Shriners. It's open to everyone and we need more participation from the public."

There will be a street dance the night before.

At 9 p.m., the town of Hayden will block off South Walnut to traffic. DNA 318, a classic rock band from Craig, will play until midnight.

The VFW will have a hamburger and hot dog stand for any hungry dancers. No glass bottles are allowed.